Alexei Popyrin vs Marin Cilic Tips, Prediction & Live Stream - Under 23.5 games backed in Dubai second round

Astonishingly, all seeds in the bottom half of the draw were eliminated in the opening round, meaning the likes of Popyrin and Cilic are now among the favourites to reach the final in Dubai this week. Both players were struggling heading into this tournament, so it's a welcome opportunity. It's tough to split the pair, but I'm going to be backing Under 23.5 total games as the best bet. Popyrin has seen nine of his last 10 ATP matches decided in straight sets, while eight of Cilic's last 10 outings have also resulted in just two sets. If this trend continues, it's likely Under 23.5 games lands here.

Currently locked at 1-1, but the pair haven't played in a few years. Popyrin prevailed in straights indoors at Singapore 2021 before Cilic eased to a straight sets victory at Miami 2022.

Popyrin enjoyed a breakout season in 2024, highlighted by securing his maiden Masters 1000 title in Canada and knocking Novak Djokovic out of the US Open.

The Aussie has struggled since those big moments and arrived in Dubai on a five-match losing streak that dated back to the end of last year at the Paris Masters.

Popyrin lost in the first round at Brisbane and the Australian Open, along with Rotterdam and Doha, but managed to pick up his first victory of 2025 in Dubai, easing to a 6-2 6-4 win over wildcard Hady Habib.

Now, after six previous appearances in Dubai, Popyrin will be aiming to reach the quarter-finals for the first time.

Well and truly into the twilight of his career, Cilic was forced off the tour for large chunks last year due to injury problems.

The Croatian returned during the back-half of 2024 and surprised everyone to win the ATP 250 title in Hangzhou, showcasing he still has the quality to compete on tour.

However, Cilic suffered a dip in form after that successful week, going on to lose six of his next seven matches.

Cilic played his first match of 2025 last week in Doha, where he put in a respectable performance in a 4-6 4-6 loss to Carlos Alcaraz. The 36-year-old was pitted against another top 10 player in Alex de Minaur in his Dubai opener, but the former World No. 3 was up to the challenge this time, producing a superb performance to prevail 6-2 3-6 6-3.